What happened: Buffalo general manager Jarmo Kekalainen said Tuesday on WGR 550 that Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen will be a big part of the Sabres' future. He deflected speculation linking Buffalo to Connor Hellebuyck, saying rival clubs call constantly without it signaling a pending move. He said Alex Lyon is close to returning and that Colten Ellis delivered excellent outings last season.

Why it matters: Hellebuyck's suspension ends Friday, compressing Winnipeg's timeline to trade or reinstate the 33-year-old Hart and Vezina winner. Buffalo's stance matters because Luukkonen gained five-team no-trade protection July 1, complicating any swap construction. New York's season-ending loss of Igor Shesterkin adds a third-party wrinkle, with Utah and Carolina also cited as suitors.

What to watch: Friday's reinstatement decision sets Winnipeg's next move. Lyon's return timeline will clarify Buffalo's three-goalie rotation.